It’s August! With days getting shorter and less than a month to go before most students return to school, it’s tempting to feel sorry for ourselves and denounce the fleeting summer season. But summer isn’t quite over. In fact, there’s still much to look forward to: vegetables and fruits abound, sunflowers are aglow, and plenty of beach days remain.

This weekend, enjoy the sunshine while letting the kids navigate their way out of the Lyman Orchards Sunflower Maze or take a guided family hike at Trumbull Nature and Arts Center. If you'd rather escape the heat, build a terrarium and enjoy free admission at Lyman Allyn Art Museum or attend a monthly Kids Workshop at Home Depot. 

There are plenty of free movies and concerts around the state, so be sure to check the Mommy Poppins calendar to see what else is happening. For the latest and best family-friendly events, subscribe to our weekly newsletters and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. 

Have a beautiful weekend and a happy August!

All Weekend

The Middlesex and New Haven County 4-H Fair (New Haven County) 
Tractor pulls, animal showmanship, livestock exhibits and robotics demonstrations are some of the attractions at this year's three-day fair.

“West Side Story” in West Hartford (Hartford County)
Looking to spend some quality time with your teenager? Attend a performance of "West Side Story", a tale that explores young love, ethnic differences, and societal norms.

“Peter Pan” at Shelton High School (Fairfield County)
Let the boy who would never grow up take you on a magical adventure to Neverland in this beloved family musical. 

Soundwaters Family Sail (Fairfield County)
Enjoy the excitement and wonder of the Long Island Sound aboard an 80-foot Schooner.

Orange Volunteer Firemen’s Carnival (New Haven County)
Rides, fireworks, free prizes for children, carnival treats, and delicious food will keep every family member happy and entertained. Free parking and admission.

Saturday, August 1

Taste of the Caribbean and Jerk Festival (Hartford County)
Enjoy a taste of the Caribbean and savor authentic cuisine while admiring spectacular costumes and dance, and island rhythms taking over the Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. Free admission. 

Snakes of Connecticut (New Haven County)
They are one of the most misunderstood and mysterious creatures, but also one of nature's most important predators. Meet up close and get personal with some of our state's indigenous snakes. Free.

Quassy Amusement Park Carload Night (New Haven County)
Fill your car to the brim and spend a summer evening by the glow of rides and arcade games.

Stonington Village Fair (New London County)
Browse hundreds of books, shop a variety of fine crafts and artisanal goods, delight in children’s activities, and enjoy the sounds of local musicians. Free admission.

Easton’s Annual Firemen’s Carnival (Fairfield County)
Head to this old-fashioned, much beloved local carnival that appeals to all ages. Enjoy rides, entertainment and great food, including the famous Peach Shortcake.

42nd Annual Blueberry Festival (Litchfield County)
Savor a blueberry pancake breakfast and enjoy family-friendly activities, including face painting.

See All Saturday Events

Sunday, August 2

Walnut Beach Art Festival (New Haven County)
Feast your eyes on a variety of art, including painting, woodworking, metalwork, pottery, ceramics, clothing, jewelry and more. Free admission and parking.

Cruisin’ on Main Street (Hartford County)
Watch downtown Manchester become a dazzling array of antique vehicles and have fun pointing out your favorites. Free.

49th Annual Belltown Vintage Motorcar Meet (Middlesex County)
Admire cars and trucks from the dawn of the motoring age through 1971, shop a flea market, and enjoy a variety of food vendors.

First Sunday for Kids at Hill-Stead Museum (Hartford County) 
Take a guided, child-friendly nature walk on the museum’s pastoral property and enjoy learning about the Hill-Stead’s history.

Summer Music Sunday (New London County)
Stroll the lovely Mystic Seaport grounds after hours and relax to the sounds of live music performed by local musicians.

See All Sunday Events